By correspondent in Lagos.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has received commendation from the House Committee on Customs and Excise for its increase in revenue generation and contributions to national security.
On Wednesday, July 10, 2024, during an oversight visit to the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters in Abuja, the House of Representatives emphasized the importance of improving security at the country’s land borders. Leke Abejide, the House committee chairman on customs and excise duties, acknowledged the NCS’s efforts in intercepting arms and ammunition, notably in recent operations in Lagos and Rivers states.
“These interceptions were not routine seizures. They potentially saved the lives of countless Nigerians and demonstrated the exceptional skills and dedication of your personnel in protecting our borders,” Abejide stated.
Recently, the NCS seized 844 rifles and 112,500 rounds of ammunition in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Additionally, the Customs area command in Ikeja, headed by Murtala Muhammed, seized 55 pieces of unassembled Jojef Magnum semi-automatic shotguns.
Despite these successes, Abejide urged the service not to be complacent, noting that the seizures highlight significant security challenges that necessitate increased border security efforts.
“Every weapon and illicit item seized is a victory, but every attempt to smuggle them into Nigeria is a call to redouble our efforts,” he said.
The committee also announced plans to investigate illegal activities within bonded terminals and free trade zones across the country.
“Our objective is to bring sanity and order to these areas, ensuring they operate within the confines of the law and contribute positively to the nation’s growth,” Abejide explained.
He also advocated for the progress of the e-customs modernization project and urged the service to address network outage issues to ensure a smooth transition. The chairman assured the NCS of the committee’s support, emphasizing the need for continuous investment in resources, technology, and manpower to achieve greater success.
Adewale Adeniyi, the comptroller-general of Customs, highlighted the importance of legislative oversight in ensuring efficiency, transparency, and accountability in NCS operations and projects. “You help us to better facilitate trade and secure our borders while collecting revenues that are very vital to our economy,” he said.
Adeniyi assured the committee that the NCS is committed to continuous improvement and innovation. He emphasized that feedback and recommendations from the legislature are crucial for streamlining processes, improving efficiency, and maintaining high standards of integrity and service.
He also noted that disciplinary actions have been taken against personnel found wanting to instill discipline and serve as a deterrent to others.
Caroline Niagwan, the deputy comptroller-general in charge of tariff and trade, reported that the service is working diligently to meet its annual revenue target of N5.1 trillion. She announced that the NCS had collected N2.74 trillion in the first half of 2024, surpassing the expected revenue target of N2.54 trillion for the same period.
